After researching and comparing multiple cold air intake systems for the 6.4L Hemi Challenger, we evaluated each based on manufacturer specifications, published performance claims, and aggregated owner feedback from forums and verified purchasers. Our goal is to help you find the intake that best balances power gains, build quality, ease of installation, and long-term durability. Below are our top picks, each with honest assessments of strengths and weaknesses.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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K&N 63-1564 Blackhawk Air Intake Top Pick Dry filter, no oil needed; dyno-claimed +15 hp; CARB EO number pending |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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AFE Power 54-13013 Magnum FORCE Stage-2 Best for Power Pro 5R oiled filter; large intake tube; dyno-claimed +18 hp |
8.9 | 🛒 Check Price |
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S&B Filters 75-5093 Cold Air Intake Best Value Dry filter; clear lid for visual inspection; dyno-claimed +12 hp |
8.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Injen SP1447BLK SP Series Cold Air Intake Best Sound MR Technology tuned intake tube; oiled cotton filter; dyno-claimed +14 hp |
8.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Volant 154514 PowerCore Cold Air Intake Best Filter Design PowerCore dry filter with stacked pleats; closed box design; dyno-claimed +10 hp |
8.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Roto-Fab CAI-1000 Cold Air Intake Premium Build Rotomolded tube; dry filter with pleated media; includes billet MAF adapter |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Spectre Performance 9057 Cold Air Intake Budget Pick Oiled cotton filter; polished aluminum tube; open element design |
7.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. K&N 63-1564 Blackhawk Air Intake: Top Pick
The K&N 63-1564 Blackhawk is a well-engineered intake that uses a dry filter, eliminating the risk of over-oiling the MAF sensor. In our evaluation of owner feedback and spec sheets, many users report noticeable throttle response and a modest power increase. The heat shield is effective at blocking engine bay heat, and the rotomolded tube is rigid and smooth for airflow. The installation is straightforward with clear instructions, and the filter is washable with water.
However, this intake does not currently have CARB approval for all 50 states, which could be an issue for those in California or states that follow CARB rules. The price is on the higher side compared to some competitors. If you need a guaranteed legal intake for strict emissions regions, you may want to consider a CARB-exempt model. Overall, it is a top performer for most Challenger owners.
- Dry synthetic filter requires no oiling, reducing maintenance
- Rotomolded polyethylene tube maintains low intake air temps
- Includes heat shield that seals against the hood
Pros: No oiling needed; Solid power gains; Excellent fit and finish
Cons: Not yet CARB exempt in all states
2. AFE Power 54-13013 Magnum FORCE Stage-2: Best for Power
The AFE Power Magnum FORCE Stage-2 is designed for maximum airflow, featuring a large Pro 5R oiled filter and a smooth mandrel-bent tube. Based on owner feedback, many report a noticeable seat-of-the-pants power gain, especially at higher RPM. The billet MAF adapter ensures a proper seal and accurate readings. The heat shield is robust and helps keep intake temps down.
On the downside, the oiled filter requires periodic cleaning and re-oiling, and if over-oiled can cause MAF sensor issues. The price is among the highest in this guide. It also may be overkill for a stock or lightly modified Challenger. If you have extensive engine mods and want every possible horsepower, this is a strong contender, but for daily drivers, a simpler intake might be better.
- Largest filter surface area in this comparison
- Includes a billet aluminum MAF sensor adapter
- High-density polyethylene tube with smooth transitions
Pros: Highest peak power claims; Quality construction; Includes MAF adapter
Cons: Oiled filter requires careful maintenance; Expensive
3. S&B Filters 75-5093 Cold Air Intake: Best Value
The S&B 75-5093 offers a balance of performance and affordability. In our research, owners appreciate the clear filter lid that allows visual inspection without removing the intake. The dry filter is easy to clean with water and no oil is needed. The heat shield fits well and the rubber gasket helps seal against the hood, reducing hot air ingestion.
However, the power gains are on the lower end of the spectrum, and some users report that the filter gets dirty quickly in dusty environments. The tube is not as large as some competitors, which may limit top-end power. If you are looking for a budget-friendly upgrade that still provides a modest improvement in sound and throttle response, this is a solid choice. But if maximum power is your goal, you might want to look elsewhere.
- Dry filter with a clear inspection window
- Rotomolded tube with smooth interior
- Heat shield with rubber gasket seals against hood
Pros: Great value for the price; Dry filter easy to maintain; Clear lid is handy
Cons: Power gains are modest; Filter may need more frequent cleaning in dusty conditions
4. Injen SP1447BLK SP Series Cold Air Intake: Best Sound
The Injen SP1447BLK is known for its aggressive intake roar, especially under wide-open throttle. The MR Technology tube is designed to enhance sound without sacrificing flow. Based on owner feedback, many enjoy the increased engine noise and report a slight improvement in throttle response. The heat shield is decent, and the filter is large.
However, the oiled filter requires careful maintenance to avoid MAF contamination. Some owners found the installation a bit fiddly, particularly routing the tube and securing the heat shield. The power gains are comparable to other intakes but not class-leading. If you prioritize an exciting intake sound and are willing to maintain an oiled filter, this is a good pick. But if you prefer a quieter cabin, skip this one.
- MR Technology tube designed for specific frequencies
- Oiled cotton filter with large surface area
- Includes heat shield and all necessary hardware
Pros: Aggressive intake sound; Good power gains; Tuned for performance
Cons: Oiled filter can cause MAF issues if over-oiled; Installation can be tight
5. Volant 154514 PowerCore Cold Air Intake: Best Filter Design
The Volant 154514 uses a unique PowerCore filter that provides high filtration efficiency while maintaining good airflow. The closed airbox design helps keep intake air cool, which is beneficial for consistent performance. In our evaluation, owners appreciate the quality of materials and the straightforward installation. The filter is dry and requires no oiling.
However, the power gains are on the lower side, and the replacement filters are more expensive than washable units. The closed box may also limit the intake sound, which some enthusiasts find less exciting. If you prioritize filtration quality and a quiet intake, this is a great option. But if you want maximum power or a loud intake sound, consider other picks.
- PowerCore filter offers high filtration with low restriction
- Sealed airbox reduces hot air ingestion
- Easy installation with pre-drilled holes
Pros: Excellent filtration; Quiet operation; Durable construction
Cons: Modest power gains; Filter replacement cost is higher than washable units
6. Roto-Fab CAI-1000 Cold Air Intake: Premium Build
The Roto-Fab CAI-1000 is a premium intake system that uses a rotomolded tube and a dry filter. The build quality is exceptional, with a thick heat shield and a billet MAF adapter that ensures accurate readings. Based on owner feedback, the intake provides a noticeable improvement in throttle response and a modest power increase. The installation is straightforward, and the filter is washable.
However, the price is steep, and it is not CARB exempt, which may limit its use in some states. The power gains are not significantly higher than more affordable options. If you value top-tier construction and are willing to pay a premium, this is an excellent choice. But for those on a budget or needing CARB compliance, other options may be better.
- High-quality rotomolded tube with smooth interior
- Dry filter with large surface area
- Includes billet aluminum MAF sensor adapter
Pros: Premium materials; Excellent fit and finish; Good power gains
Cons: Higher price; Not CARB exempt
7. Spectre Performance 9057 Cold Air Intake: Budget Pick
The Spectre 9057 is a budget-friendly intake that offers a simple open-element design. It is easy to install and provides a louder intake sound. In our research, some owners noted a slight improvement in throttle response. The polished aluminum tube looks good under the hood.
However, the lack of a heat shield means it may pull hot air from the engine bay, potentially reducing power gains compared to closed-box designs. The oiled filter is basic and may require frequent cleaning. Build quality is not as robust as higher-priced intakes. If you are on a tight budget and want a simple upgrade for sound, this is an option. But for serious performance or consistent power, we recommend spending more on a shielded intake.
- Low cost compared to competitors
- Polished aluminum tube for appearance
- Includes filter and clamps
Pros: Very affordable; Easy installation; Improved engine sound
Cons: Open element design may draw hot air; Less durable filter; No heat shield included
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a cold air intake void my warranty?
Generally, a cold air intake will not void your entire vehicle warranty, but if the intake causes a failure, that specific repair may not be covered. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects consumers, but the manufacturer must prove the modification caused the issue. To be safe, keep your original parts and consider an intake with a CARB EO number for emissions compliance.
Do I need a tune after installing a cold air intake?
Most cold air intakes for the 6.4 Hemi Challenger are designed to work with the factory ECU and do not require a tune. The MAF sensor can adjust for the increased airflow. However, a tune can optimize the air-fuel ratio and may yield additional power. If you add other modifications like headers or a cam, a tune becomes more important.
How much horsepower can I expect from a cold air intake?
Manufacturers typically claim gains of 10 to 18 horsepower at the flywheel. Real-world gains are often lower, around 5 to 10 wheel horsepower, depending on the intake and your vehicle’s condition. The primary benefit is improved throttle response and intake sound rather than massive power increases.
Are oiled filters bad for my MAF sensor?
Oiled filters can cause MAF sensor contamination if over-oiled. This can lead to rough idle, poor fuel economy, and check engine lights. To avoid this, use a dry filter or carefully follow the manufacturer’s oiling instructions. Many modern intakes use dry filters to eliminate this risk.
Which cold air intake is CARB legal?
Among our picks, the S&B 75-5093 and the AFE Power 54-13013 have CARB EO numbers for some applications, but you should check the specific part number for your vehicle. The K&N 63-1564 and Roto-Fab CAI-1000 are not currently CARB exempt. Always verify with the manufacturer for the latest emissions compliance.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the top cold air intakes for the 6.4 Hemi Challenger, our top pick is the K&N 63-1564 Blackhawk for its excellent balance of performance, ease of maintenance, and build quality. The runner-up is the S&B 75-5093, which offers great value and a dry filter. Choose based on your priorities: maximum power, budget, or emissions compliance.
Last reviewed and spec-checked: April 22, 2026. We re-check our picks and listings periodically.
